Jump to content

I have the same thoughts about Project Ara as I did about Phone Blocks, and it all stems from a r...


G+_Neil Sedlak
 Share

Recommended Posts

I have the same thoughts about Project Ara as I did about Phone Blocks, and it all stems from a revelation when I started using my first MiFi.

 

The basic thought is this: Why does everything have to be in a single device?

 

With items like a MiFi, smart watch, tablet and Bluetooth headset, you can already "build" a modular system. While it won't appeal to the fashion crowd, the functional crowd should be interested in a system of WiFi or low power Bluetooth connected devices that each do what they do best, rather than a single device that is of average quality at a lot of things. This idea is even more appealing these days with the availability of wireless charging.

 

The main thing is it has to be done well, and devices must integrate seamlessly.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Of course it's not for everyone, but from my standpoint, ever since I got a Nexus 7 I've used my phone less and less except for voice calls. At this point, a screen on the phone is really just for backup if I don't have the tablet. A tiny transmitter/handset that provided network to a tablet/laptop/etc. would be perfect. It could have a pebble-like screen and a pico projector to provide that backup screen function. The trend of bigger and bigger phones is getting out of hand, so separating the large screen and focusing on some core features provides another option for those that want a tiny phone, with an optional large screen. A modular system, like Ara, would provide the ability to build such a tiny core device. Just some thoughts for the future. Once again, if it doesn't have a seamless user experience, I agree it would fail.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

During the episode, they mentioned that nobody made a modular laptop.  They actually tried that in 2006.

http://www.xbitlabs.com/news/mobile/display/20060327232038.html

"Intel Corp. Promotes Interchangeable Laptop Components.

Intel Wants Mobile Computers to Use Unified Components

[03/27/2006 11:21 PM]"

Then, a year or two later, everyone started swooning over the macbook air.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

 Share

×
×
  • Create New...